We all know that moving into a new area can be daunting, especially when it comes to meeting your neighbours. But don’t forget that everyone’s been in the same boat at some point, and all it takes is a small gesture or two to get things going.
With that in mind, here are a few simple tips from our expert sales teams for getting to know your neighbours.
Say hello!
We’re not saying you need to show up on your neighbour’s doorstep with a tray of homemade biscuits, but calling over to introduce yourself is a good start.
If the idea of introducing yourself in person isn’t for you, why not pop a handwritten note through their letterbox? You can introduce yourself indirectly and if you’re feeling up to it give them your number or invite them over for a cup of tea.
Go for lots of walks
The best way to get to know a place and the people that live there is on foot, especially if you have a dog. Dog walkers are well known for being friendly, and with some help from your furry friend, you’ll have a great excuse to spark up a conversation with any fellow dog lovers.
Take the kids to the park
Local parks are great places to meet other parents. Whilst your kids play on the swings, you can find out all the best places to get coffee (and which takeaways to check out)! A few trips to the park, and before you know it your calendar will be filling up with play dates.
Join local groups online
Joining Facebook groups is a great way to get to know names and faces, as well as find out what’s going on in and around your development before you even move. Keep an eye out for posts from local groups that may be of interest to you and your family.
Lend a hand
If you know a neighbour needs help with something, why not offer some assistance? It could be something as simple as offering to take their bins out whilst they’re on holiday or collecting their parcels whilst they’re at work. A little bit of kindness goes a long way.
Get involved
Jump on Facebook, Eventbrite and community notice boards to find out what’s happening in the next few weeks. From farmers’ markets to funfairs, theatre to live music, you never know what might be happening on your doorstep. And even if an event isn’t quite up your street, it could be the perfect place to make some new connections.
Hang out in your local coffee shop
Cafés are often the hubs of communities. So, grab your laptop, pull up a chair and make your nearest coffee shop your home-from-home office. Before you know it, you’ll be on first name terms with the baristas and other regulars.
Throw a housewarming party
Break the ice and throw a knees-up for the neighbours. You could host a casual drinks party or organise a potluck where everyone brings a dish to share. Or, if it’s summer, why not fire up the BBQ and invite the whole street over to your new pad?
Last but not least… be respectful!
Being respectful is key to building positive relationships in your new neighbourhood.
Lynsey Brown, Group Head of Sales for St Modwen Homes says: “We all have our dos and don’ts when it comes to neighbours, but there are some common pitfalls that are easy to avoid.
“Making sure you take in your bins, maintain your front lawn, and avoid monopolising available parking spaces when people come to visit are all easy actions that will contribute to a happier neighbourhood, whether that’s within a new homes development or somewhere you’ve lived for years.”